Even the very best players in the World successfully roquet at 15 yards less than 50% of the time. How much less the rest of we mortals - especially if the price for missing will be high?!

Therefore, the shots on offer here are NOT as easy as they seem. If you think that (in this example) the chance of an immediate break is less than 50% for you, then probably the best thing to do is to take the shot at Black with Red. If you miss then the pressure is still high for Black, as he knows that Yellow will next go to the A Baulk where partner lies.

If Red hits then there is a great leave here as illustrated, with Red located in a wired position from Black at Yellow's wicket!

I will put the horse before the cart with this posting just because I don't believe anyone who wasn't at the 07 US Rules National Championships has ever seen it. I call this the "Davies" opening, and I personally have never seen it played before. I must say that throughout the evolution of this opening, as Wayne would bounce idea's off me, I was very skeptical to say the least. Well, the proof of the pudding came when Wayne used it at the recent US Rules 07 Nationals taking everyone by surprise with his ability to execute it time and time again. Each opponent basically postured with their location saying, "come ahead if you like". (Well to bad for them. )

I can see this ratcheting up the opening stakes to new levels in the American game! Let us know what you think and have fun trying it.

David

Blue had made a long roll to #2, but unfortunately for him Yellow got stuck in the wicket and the break could not continue. Blue then hit back through the dead ball Black (an attempted "saving shot") to the east border.

Red and Black are for 4-back, Yellow is for #4 and Blue of course is still for #2

How would you advise Red/Yellow to proceed?

For most players the chance of an immediate break failing is fairly high. Therefore, it may be wise to consider an ideal leave for yellow.

The rush for yellow could be set to the opponent ball at #6, as well as that shown.

This question has been well answered if the player is at Championship level. Given the exact same position, what would you recommend for the average 'Club Player'?

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OK! Here is our question. If you think you have good plan of attack please give your answer in the comments!!

I will put up the best answer next week.

Remember, to submit an answer click on the "comment" link at the bottom left of this image!